Rocket Lab Secures Major Launch Contract with JAXA for 2025 and 2026

2025-10-12 companies

New Zealand, Sunday, 12 October 2025.
Rocket Lab has signed a significant contract with Japan’s JAXA for two launches, deploying satellites to enhance space capabilities. This strengthens Rocket Lab’s global position and Japan’s space initiatives.

A Strategic Partnership in Space Exploration

Rocket Lab has secured a pivotal contract with Japan’s Aerospace Exploration Agency, JAXA, to launch two missions using its Electron rockets. These launches, scheduled for December 2025 and 2026, will take place from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 in Mahia, New Zealand. This partnership underscores Rocket Lab’s strategic role in global space exploration and Japan’s commitment to enhancing its satellite capabilities [1][4][6].

First Mission: RAISE-4 Satellite Launch

The first mission, set for December 2025, will deploy JAXA’s RAISE-4 satellite. This satellite is part of JAXA’s Rapid Innovative Payload Demonstration initiative, aiming to test eight experimental technologies from various Japanese startups and research institutions. This mission demonstrates the collaborative spirit between Rocket Lab and JAXA in pushing the boundaries of satellite technology [2][4].

Second Mission: Diverse Satellite Deployment

In 2026, the second mission will expand on this collaboration by deploying eight small satellites. These include an ocean-monitoring satellite and a satellite testing a deployable antenna based on origami design. Such innovative approaches highlight how Rocket Lab and JAXA are leveraging cutting-edge technology to address diverse scientific and environmental challenges [3][5].

Impact on Rocket Lab’s Market Position

This new contract with JAXA is a significant milestone for Rocket Lab, further cementing its reputation in the aerospace sector. The company’s stock, trading under the ticker symbol RKLB, has been on a winning streak, reflecting investor confidence and the strategic importance of its international partnerships. This contract is part of Rocket Lab’s broader plan to execute over two dozen Japan-related missions by the decade’s end, enhancing its market leadership [3][6][7].

Sources

Rocket Lab JAXA